Preformed laminate countertops come with a slight upward rising ridge in the rear; it's a few inches high to serve as a backsplash for your wall. If you'd prefer a ceramic backsplash instead, one that descends to the surface level of the laminate countertop, remove the laminate ridge to make room.
Chimneys carry smoke and soot from a fireplace or furnace out of the house. Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces produce more smoke than clean-burning gas furnaces, but both require venting through a chimney or stovepipe. The top of a chimney after installation does not always have a chimney cap.
A stair runner enhances the appearance of the stairway and adds warmth to the space. It also preserves the surface of wood, laminate or tile stairs from damage and provides a soft, noiseless padding for those ascending or descending the stairway.
A chimney made of concrete blocks and ceramic flue tiles uses a special type of block that is sized and shaped differently than the 8-by-8-by-16 inch blocks found in concrete block walls.
Failing to notice a step can be a painful experience, resulting in stubbed toes or a back-jarring drop you were not expecting. Highlighting the edges of stairs is one way to increase their visibility. The United States Access Board states that every tread should have a "
Wood stoves are efficient sources of heat for a home and are safe as long as you install them correctly. Stray cinders or sparks can start fires in combustible carpet or wood flooring without the proper hearth.
Skylights come in a multitude of shapes and sizes and allow natural light into the home. While skylights typically endure for long periods, they can fail and develop leaks. Leaks are due to small cracks caused by an object hitting the skylight, or a deteriorating seal around the edges.
Once reserved for covering sheds and outbuildings, metal roofing in attractive standing-seam designs is making an appearance on higher-end homes, especially in regions with heavy snowfall. Attics are notorious for collecting warm, moist air that can damage the roof structure if it has no way to escape.
Concrete subflooring is commonly used in home building, and it is fairly easy to install beautiful flooring over the concrete. Laminate flooring is available in many forms and finishes, allowing you to create a customized look throughout your home.
In addition to creating visual appeal and making the rooms feel cozy, a wood stove is practical. It's simple to use, and setting a desired temperature is relatively simple. Overheating is a concern for wood stoves, though, because too much heat creates the risk of a chimney fire.